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St. Patrick School
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Father Allen Zeth
I was born in Altoona, PA, to John and Nancy Zeth and was baptized at St. Therese of the Child Jesus Church. As the middle child of five siblings, I grew up in Newry, PA, after our family moved to my father’s homestead in 1966. I attended St. Patrick School for the first seven grades before transferring to Hollidaysburg for high school when the 7th and 8th grades were closed.
I pursued my calling in religious life by earning a Bachelor of Philosophy from St. Pius X Seminary in Erlanger, KY, followed by a Master of Divinity from St. Vincent Seminary in Latrobe, PA. I was ordained a transitional deacon on May 18, 1985, at Holy Name Church in Ebensburg and later ordained as a priest on May 17, 1986.
Throughout my ministry, I have served at Our Lady of Victory in State College, St. Rose of Lima in Altoona, and as Parochial Vicar at Our Mother of Sorrows in Johnstown. I also served as Vocation Director for the Altoona Johnstown Diocese at St. Michael the Archangel in Loretto. My pastoral journey continued as Pastor of St. John the Baptist Parish in New Baltimore until I was appointed Administrator of St. Patrick Parish on June 22, 2013. In addition to this role, I also ministered at St. Thomas More Parish in Roaring Spring and served as Catholic chaplain at Penn State Altoona and Juniata College. My dedication to education was reflected in my position as vice-principal of pastoral services and senior religion teacher at Bishop Guilfoyle.
In my free time, I enjoy engaging in creative activities like crafting and painting, and I have a deep love for music. I’m particularly fond of Hallmark movies, especially the Christmas ones, and I look forward to decorating for and celebrating the holidays. Spending time with my family is very important to me, and I cherish our Sunday family meals and vacations at Rehoboth Beach. I also enjoy attending summer and fall festivals with friends, as these events allow me to embrace the community spirit.
Principal: Mrs. Tara Steinbugl
With over two decades of experience in education, I’ve had the privilege of shaping young minds as a classroom teacher for 21 years. My passion for early childhood education led me to serve as a preschool director and head of school in State College for six years before joining St. Pats in October 2021. Throughout my career, I’ve been committed to fostering a nurturing and enriching environment for all students. I hold a Pennsylvania Teaching Certification, a bachelor’s degree from Point Park University, along with Pennsylvania’s Director Credential and a Montessori teacher certification.
Outside of my professional life, I deeply value spending time with my family. I have twin daughters, Ashley and Riley and a son, Ben. I also have a special place in my heart for my 2 beagles and my Bernese Mountain Dog, who are beloved members of our family and bring endless joy to our lives.
In my leisure time, I enjoy watching movies with my husband, diving into a good book, or experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen.
Secretary: Mrs. Shelley Kauffman
Coming Soon
Pre-K: Ms. Jennifer Blair
With 16 years of teaching experience, I have had the privilege of teaching Kindergarten, first, second, third, and fifth grades. My passion for teaching began in kindergarten, and I am thrilled to be part of the St. Patrick family. My teaching journey has taken me from North Carolina to Northern Virginia, specifically Fairfax County.
I am a proud graduate of Penn State University and St. John’s Elementary School, where I was fortunate to have Mr. Wilson as one of my teachers. Now, I feel blessed to teach alongside him.
After moving back home from the DC area, I spent 12 fulfilling years managing an animal hospital. However, my love for teaching never waned, and God called me back to the classroom, where I belong.
Outside of school, I cherish time with my family and enjoy visiting Miramar Beach in Florida. I also find joy in cooking, biking, hiking, and spending time with my beloved dog, Savanah, and my cats, Sunshine and Snuggles.
Kindergarten: Mrs. Kelly Stehley
This is my 8th year at St. Patrick School, and it has been a rewarding journey being part of such a vibrant community. Before joining St. Pat’s, I gained valuable experience as a substitute teacher across various local school districts. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Kindergarten and Elementary Education from Penn State, where I also earned a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction with a specialization in Reading. My passion for fostering a diverse and inclusive environment has led me to become actively involved in the Cultural Awareness Program offered here at the school.
I live with my husband, Gary, to whom I’ve been happily married for 25 years. We have a wonderful family that includes our son, Lincoln, our daughter, Jessica, and our three beautiful granddaughters.
In my free time, I love spending quality moments with my family, and our poodle, Lily, is always by my side. I’m also very active in my church community, where I take great joy in leading the song service and participating in scripture readings.
Grade 1/2: Mrs. Missy Clapper
Before joining the St. Pat’s team in November 2022, I spent 13 years teaching preschool, a time that greatly deepened my passion for early childhood education. I hold an associate degree in Math, Science, and Computer Science, along with a bachelor’s degree in Humanities from Mount Aloysius. To further my expertise, I earned a master’s degree in Early Childhood Education and Early Childhood Special Education from Grand Canyon University.
I live in Loretto with my husband, Greg, and our three children—Blane, Larissa, and Jermiah. Our home is filled with love, laughter, and the joy of shared adventures. In my free time, I find peace working in my vegetable and flower gardens, where I take pride in growing and canning my own produce. I’m also an avid spelunker and enjoy spending time outdoors, embracing the beauty of nature. I have a few favorites that reflect my personality—yellow is my color of choice, bacon is my go-to comfort food, Forrest Gump is my favorite movie, I love 80’s music, and sunflowers always brighten my day.
Grades 3/4: Ms. Debbie Decker
I joined the St. Pat’s team in October 2022 and feel truly blessed to be part of this wonderful community. Before coming to St. Pat’s, I spent 19 years with the Altoona Area School District as a special education teacher, where I taught learning support, emotional support, alternative education, and life skills. My educational background includes an associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Cushings Jr. College in Philadelphia, a bachelor’s degree in Special Education from St. Francis University, and a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Gannon University.
Family is incredibly important to me, and I’m proud to have four children—two boys and two girls—along with eight grandchildren and five beloved granddoggies. In my free time, I enjoy going on cruises and traveling, as well as indulging in hobbies like crocheting, sewing, knitting, and reading historical fiction. Some of my favorite things include hamburgers, the color pink, the subject of history, Christian music, and spending time at the beach.
Grades 5/6: Mr. William Fitzgerald
I’m in my 12th year of teaching, having spent 5 years teaching Physical Education in North Carolina before transitioning to the Altoona-Johnstown Diocese. This is my 7th year with the Diocese, where I currently teach Math, Science, and Health to students in grades 5 through 8. I graduated from East Carolina University in 2000 with a degree in K-12 Physical Education and Health, and I later earned a degree in Elementary Education from St. Francis University.
Outside of the classroom, I’m passionate about coaching. I work with 7th and 8th grade girls’ soccer and 7th grade boys’ basketball teams. I also enjoy following Tar Heels sports, watching golf, and engaging in umpiring and refereeing. My favorite things include savoring a good steak, the color Carolina Blue, cheering on the North Carolina Tar Heels, exploring Math and Science, and listening to country music.
My family, which includes my twin sons, Jacob and Jared, is a central part of my life, and I cherish the time spent with them.
Grades 7/8: Mr. Steve Wilson
I’m a proud St. Patrick graduate and am currently in my 47th year of teaching. Before joining St. Pat’s, I spent 38 years teaching at St. John in Lakemont. At St. Pat’s, I teach English, reading, and history for grades 5 through 8, as well as spelling for grades 5 and 6 and religion for grades 7 and 8. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Penn State University.
I live in Altoona with my wife, Janie, who is the Preschool Assistant Teacher. We have 3 daughters; Janee, Lindsey (husband Justin) and Kaylin.
In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and dogs, watching the St. Louis Cardinals, Penn State football, and Pittsburgh Steelers, and traveling, with a special fondness for Australia. I’ve been actively involved in extra-curricular activities as a Forensics coach for 24 years and as a Celebrate Diversity/Cultural Awareness Program Leader for 27 years.
Maintenance: Mr. Mark Nedimyer
Coming Soon
Before School Care: Carrie Lingenfelter
I’m Carrie Lingenfelter, a dedicated wife, mother of five, and proud grandmother. Four of my children attended St. Patrick School, and my grandson is currently a student there. In my role as the Before School teacher, I have the joy of nurturing and guiding young minds as they start their day.
As a 4th generation Catholic School alumna, I have been a devoted member of St. Patrick Parish for 40 years. My professional journey includes serving as a physical therapy assistant and nurse assistant for 30 years at the Hollidaysburg Veterans Home, a position where I felt both honored and privileged to work.
My passion for my faith and family shines through in everything I do. I love watching children grow in their faith, and I always prioritize my family first and my faith second. For the past 30 years, I have also managed the Shenanigan’s booth at the Festival in the Shade, contributing to the joy and togetherness of our community.
Pre School Aide: Mrs. Janie Wilson
I’ve been helping in Pre-K at St. Patrick School for 8 years, and it’s been a joy to work with and support our young students. Before joining St. Pat’s, I volunteered at St. John School in Lakemont, where I served as a playground coordinator and coached and judged Odyssey of the Mind. I also volunteered in similar roles at Bishop Guilfoyle and St. Patrick School. I genuinely enjoy being involved in the educational journey of our students.
I’m happily married to Steve, who teaches 5th through 8th grade, and together we have three beautiful daughters: Janee, Lindsey, and Kaylin. Our family wouldn’t be complete without our two adorable pups, Ace and Sunshine.
I absolutely love spending time at the beach, soaking in the sun and the serenity of the ocean.My favorite color is purple, and I adore daisies. When it comes to food, nothing beats pizza. Ocean View, VA, holds a special place in my heart, and I’m a big fan of Jimmy Buffett’s music.
Music: Joann Adams
Coming soon
Physical Education: Joe Dumm
In 1974, as I was finishing my studies at St. Francis University, I had an offer to teach at a public school. At that time, Dr. Arthur Julian encouraged me to consider a position at St. Patrick School, where they were looking for a junior high social studies and science teacher. Taking his advice was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made, and I’m incredibly grateful to still be here 49 years later.
When I first started at St. Patrick School, half of the faculty were Sisters of Mercy, and they were wonderful to work with. These dedicated women inspired me and helped shape my early teaching years. I had the opportunity to teach various subjects, including gym, geography, history, government, and science. Alongside teaching, I was fortunate to coach the 7th and 8th grade basketball teams, guiding both the boys’ and girls’ teams—a role that brought me countless unforgettable moments.
Over the years, St. Patrick School has become much more than just a workplace. The incredible families and students have always been the heart of this school, creating a close-knit and vibrant community that I am proud to be part of. The joy of working with such terrific kids and their families keeps me motivated and inspired every day.
Art: Jana Sidler
Coming Soon